About this Event
Whether you're a sailing enthusiast, a lover of maritime history, or simply seeking a unique experience on Sydney Harbour, The Centenarian Rally 2025 offers a rare opportunity to witness the living legacy of Australia’s finest heritage vessels.
We are proud to partner with the Sydney Amateur Sailing Club for their bi-annual Centenarian Rally, supported by the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Wooden Boat Association of NSW.
This extraordinary event brings together over 40 historic yachts — both sail and power — all over 100 years old, and all still sailing today. These vessels, built between 1888 and 1925, represent the craftsmanship, resilience, and maritime spirit that shaped Sydney’s relationship with the sea.
On Sunday, October 12, Tall Ship James Craig (1874) will lead the grand procession from the Heritage Pontoon to Athol Bight, where the rally will officially begin, called on by Peter Scott, Commodore of the Sydney Amateur Sailing Club.
This spectacular on-water event is your chance to see these vintage vessels under full sail, gracefully navigating the harbour as they once did in their prime.
Event Details
Tall Ship James Craig The Centenarian Rally 2025 Spectator's Cruise
Special Guest and Commentator: Sydney Amateur Club Commodore Peter Scott
Sunday, October 12th
Boarding Commences: 800am I Departs Wharf 7 : 830am
James Craig, 1874 leads procession to Athol Bite
Positions as Spectator Boat and fires Cannon to start Rally event
Spectator Boat with Commentry from Commordore then Departs Athol Bite
Arrives Wharf 7: 12.30pm
Refreshments:
BYO Picnic
Alcohol Free Event
Tea & Coffee: Complimentary
Soft Drinks: Available for purchase
ANMM Exhibition: Sept 30 – Oct 11
Come down to the Heritage Pontoon at the Maritime Museum to view this remarkable fleet up close. The vessels will be on display for two weeks, offering an intimate look at their exquisite restoration and enduring beauty.
Featured Vessels of The Centenarian Rally Include:
SY Ena (1900) – A magnificently restored Edwardian steam yacht, once used for naval patrols and luxury entertaining, showcasing early 20th-century opulence.
Hoana (1925) – A gaff-rigged sloop with a distinguished racing pedigree, renowned for her circumnavigation and craftsmanship by James Hayes & Sons.
Jenny Wren (1889) – One of the oldest racing yachts in Australia, designed by Walter Reeks and built by Thomas Cubitt — a true pioneer in yacht innovation.
Utiekah II (1911) – Commissioned for school training voyages, later owned by Harold Nossiter, the first Australian to circumnavigate the globe by yacht.
Sao (1905) – A deep-keeled classic by WM Ford Boatbuilders, once sailed by aviation pioneer Charles Kingsford Smith.
Maritimo-Katwinchar (1904) – A restored veteran of the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, now returned to the competitive sailing scene.
Akarana, Athene, Florrie, Oenone, Benno, Sea Rover, Ventura – Each vessel tells a powerful story of survival, restoration, and continued service on the water.
Don’t Miss This Rare Harbour Spectacle
Celebrate the legacy of Australian sailing, marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of these historic boats, and join a living tradition that continues to sail strong over a century later.
All are welcome — families, enthusiasts, and curious onlookers alike.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Tall Ship James Craig, Wharf 7, 58 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, Australia
AUD 20.00 to AUD 30.00
